Fraud and Scams

What is Fraud?

Fraud is broadly defined as an act on behalf of a person that is deceptive or deceitful in some way in that it causes them to receive a benefit that they are not entitled to. In this way some other person or organisation to suffer some disadvantage.

Fraud in New South Wales is a growing problem. With the advent of on-line services and the internet fraud can be committed in dozens of ways.

Victims of Fraud

The victims of fraud can sustain significant financial and psychological harm as a result. The results of this can be devastating for business and individuals therefore society as a whole suffers greatly. Some victims are often of embarrassed that they do not report fraud as they think that Police or their friends and family will think less of them.

Our Duty

Our duty to the people in New South Wales is to try to minimise the amount of fraud and to educate people (both individuals and the business community) about how to minimise risk of fraud affecting you.

The New South Wales Police Force are working with other Australian Government agencies as well as business and community groups to help us address this problem.

Most fraud is investigated at the local level and this form - Fraud Report Form - is required to be completed and lodged prior to an investigation commencing.

Scams are commonplace and they target both businesses and the individual. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission role is to provide information to all Australians in order for them to protect themselves against all types of fraud and scams. The New South Wales Police encourage you to visit their site to familiarise yourself with this type of activity and the latest trends.